Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology's (PMB) undergraduate major program in Genetics and Plant Biology has been developed as a broadly based program emphasizing the study of plants from the molecular and genetic to the organismal levels. Lower division courses are intended to produce a foundation in biological and physical sciences as preparation for advanced study at the upper division level. Coursework from the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, which can be used as a foundation for medical school application, is interesting and varied. The small department provides a rich and supportive environment for learning.

Plant biology emphasizes the study of plants from genetics to the organism. From oxygen to food to shelter to energy to shade, plants provide humans with virtually everything needed to survive and thrive. There is important work for those who want to unravel the mystery of genes, teach the next generation of biologists to devise ways to feed the world.

Microbes are the dominant life form on earth, weighing more than all other life forms combined. Bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, viruses; they're everywhere, and we need to know more about them. Industry, government, and academia agree, since we are seeing an increased demand for employees and students with knowledge and skills related to microbial biology.

The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology (PMB) offers an undergraduate major program in Microbial Biology, leading to a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Microbial biology focuses on small life forms such as microbes, viruses, and fungi that make up the majority of planetary biomass. Microbes play fundamental roles in maintaining biosphere health. They degrade environmental pollutants, supply essential nutrients and chemicals directly to multicellular organisms, and engage in numerous beneficial symbioses with higher organisms.